Step-by-Step Sachet Filling Process

sachet packaging machine

The Step-by-Step Sachet Filling Process is essential for manufacturers looking to package powders, liquids, granules, and pastes efficiently and cost-effectively. Sachet packaging is widely used across industries such as food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, chemicals, and household products because it offers portion control, reduced waste, and convenient single-use packaging.

For businesses in South Africa looking to scale production, understanding each stage of the sachet filling process helps improve efficiency, reduce downtime, and maintain product quality.

In this guide, we break down the full sachet packaging workflow — from film loading to final product discharge.

1. Film Loading and Unwinding

The process begins with loading a roll of flexible packaging film onto the sachet machine.

The film is typically laminated material designed to provide:

  • Moisture barrier protection

  • Oxygen resistance

  • Extended shelf life

  • Strong sealing capability

Modern sachet machines use automated film unwinding systems that maintain consistent tension. This ensures proper alignment and prevents wrinkles that could compromise seal integrity.

2. Printing and Registration (If Required)

If the sachets require branding, batch codes, expiry dates, or registration marks, printing occurs either:

  • Pre-printed on the film

  • Inline via coding systems

Photoelectric sensors detect registration marks to ensure accurate alignment during sealing and cutting.

3. Sachet Forming

The flat film is shaped into a tube using a forming collar. The edges of the film overlap and are sealed vertically to create a continuous tube.

At this stage, the machine prepares individual sachet compartments.

Depending on production needs, manufacturers may use:

  • 3-side seal sachets

  • 4-side seal sachets

  • Center seal sachets

  • Multi-lane sachet systems for high output

This forming stage is critical to ensure uniform pouch dimensions.

4. Step-by-Step Sachet Filling Process: Product Dosing

The filling stage is the core of the Step-by-Step Sachet Filling Process.

Different dosing systems are used depending on product type:

For Powders:

  • Auger fillers provide precise volumetric dosing

  • Ideal for coffee, spices, protein powder, and pharmaceutical powders

For Liquids:

  • Piston fillers ensure accurate liquid measurement

  • Suitable for sauces, oils, creams, and syrups

For Granules:

  • Cup fillers or weighers measure consistent portions

  • Common for sugar, salt, and seeds

Accuracy at this stage prevents product giveaway and ensures compliance with weight regulations.

5. Horizontal Sealing

Once the product is dispensed into the formed sachet, horizontal sealing jaws close to seal the top and bottom edges.

Heat and pressure are applied to:

  • Secure product inside

  • Prevent leaks

  • Maintain freshness

Seal strength is vital for transportation durability, especially for products distributed across South Africa and neighboring countries.

6. Cutting and Separation

After sealing, the machine cuts between sachets to create individual units.

Cutting options include:

  • Straight cut

  • Zig-zag cut

  • Easy-tear notch

The separated sachets then move to the discharge conveyor.

7. Quality Control and Inspection

Modern sachet lines incorporate quality control systems such as:

  • Checkweighers

  • Metal detectors

  • Vision inspection systems

These systems detect:

  • Underfilled or overfilled sachets

  • Seal defects

  • Contamination

Automated rejection systems remove defective units without stopping production.

8. Discharge and Secondary Packaging

Finished sachets are discharged onto conveyors and prepared for:

  • Cartoning

  • Case packing

  • Shrink wrapping

  • Palletizing

Automation at this stage improves overall production speed and reduces labor costs.

Benefits of an Automated Step-by-Step Sachet Filling Process

Implementing an automated sachet packaging system offers:

  • Increased production speed
  • Reduced labor dependency
  • Improved dosing accuracy
  • Enhanced hygiene standards
  • Consistent seal quality
  • Lower long-term operational costs

 

For South African manufacturers, automation helps remain competitive in both local and export markets.

Industries That Use Sachet Filling Machines

The sachet filling process is widely used in:

  • Food & Beverage (sugar, sauces, coffee)

  • Pharmaceuticals (oral powders, supplements)

  • Cosmetics (shampoo, lotion samples)

  • Agriculture (fertilizer samples)

  • Chemical industry (detergents, cleaning products)

Choosing the Right Sachet Filling Machine

When selecting equipment, consider:

  • Product type (powder, liquid, paste, granule)

  • Required output speed

  • Sachet size range

  • Film compatibility

  • Available factory space

  • Budget and ROI

Multi-lane sachet machines are ideal for high-volume production, while single-lane systems suit smaller operations or startups.

Contact Us

Looking to implement a reliable Step-by-Step Sachet Filling Process in your factory?

We supply high-performance sachet filling machines tailored to South African manufacturers across food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and chemical industries.

Contact us today for:

  • Machine recommendations

  • On-site consultations

  • Pricing and quotations

  • After-sales support

  • Spare parts and maintenance

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Let us help you streamline your packaging line and increase production efficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What products can be packed using the sachet filling process?

Powders, liquids, pastes, granules, and semi-solid products can all be packed using appropriate dosing systems.

2. How accurate are sachet filling machines?

Modern machines can achieve dosing accuracy within ±1%, depending on product type and calibration.

3. What is the production speed of a sachet machine?

Single-lane machines can produce 30–80 sachets per minute, while multi-lane systems can exceed 300 sachets per minute.

4. Is sachet packaging cost-effective?

Yes. Sachets reduce material usage, lower shipping costs, and are ideal for single-use applications.

5. Can sachet machines be integrated into existing packaging lines?

Yes. Most modern systems are designed for seamless integration with upstream and downstream equipment.